Sassy Interiors: The Annie Sloan Chalk Paint Course

Our Sassy Interiors contributor checks out the most talked about paint technique in Dubai…

So recently I did an Annie Sloan chalk paint workshop at The Warehouse in Al Quoz. I loved it so much that I’m genuinely concerned I will no longer have time for Mothering and, instead, will be in a constant state of sanding, painting and waxing furniture.

The Warehouse is a peaceful, tasteful interiors store and well worth a visit in its own right. Being surrounded by gorgeous things, apron on and paintbrush in hand automatically made me feel all arty and creative (a welcome change from my usual harassed and late). Lynley who runs the course is a lovely lady from New Zealand. She is both knowledgeable and passionate about the paints, and very patient with her students.

Annie Sloan chalk paints are a dream to use and the beautiful existing palette can be easily mixed to create your perfect hue. They dry very fast and the wax seals them to ensure a durable finish. During the workshop we learned how to create 3 effects; crackle finish, leathered and two-tone distressed. In a clear case of ambition out-stripping ability, I will be going back to do the next course which covers more advanced techniques including the use of metallic paint and decoupage!

In the meantime I intend to put my new skills to use in my own home. The fact that these amazing paints can be used on almost any surface, combined with a natural impulse to bite off more than I can chew, has resulted in my first project being the painting of a … er … leather sofa. It will be fine! Pictures to follow. Unless it’s not fine, in which case there will be no pictures!

Aside from anything else, learning something new and painting for a couple of hours is good for the soul. Even if you don’t fancy the course, you can pop in to The Warehouse at any time and the lovely staff will set you up with everything you need to have a play with the paints. Testers of all the colours are available and you can mix away to your hearts content. Give it a go, your furniture will love you for it.

Currently living in Dubai, Ash has been busy boring (and bankrupting) her husband with her obsession for Interior Design, for several years and is now trying a new audience: our lucky Sassy Mamas. Check out her wonderful (and hilarious) blog!